Factors linked to outcomes, costs after pediatric lap chole

Editor's Note

Surgeon volume of adult general surgical procedures was significantly associated with lower morbidity and costs after pediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy in this study.

Of 3,519 laparoscopic cholecystectomies performed in pediatric patients, the overall morbidity rate was 3.9%.

High-volume general surgeons had an odds of all-cause morbidity that was 68% lower than that of low-volume pediatric surgeons, independent of pediatric volumes.

High-volume general surgeons also were able to perform laparoscopic cholecystectomies for the lowest cost, with a decrease of $2,615 from the mean.

With the rise in pediatric cholelithiasis because of childhood obesity, surgeon volume should be an important consideration when children are referred for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the researchers say.

Question What factors are associated with the morbidity and cost of laparoscopic cholecystectomies in Canadian children? Findings Among 3519 laparoscopic cholecystectomies in this study, population data, operative indication, patient comorbidities, and total surgeon volume were found to be associated with both the morbidity and cost of pediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Read More >>